Advice for hauling a trailer using your new Ford

If you are planning a bit of a vacation, perhaps a car journey through Europe, then it could be time for a little practise towing the trailer.

It isn't too difficult but if you are completely new to pulling a trailer then it can be a little over-whelming. The number one problem is becoming comfortable with the added length of the trailer, combined with the unfamiliarity of driving a new car.

So if you are about to use a trailer, then here are 9 tips to keep in mind to make sure you drive a litter safer in your Ford and also feel more in control of your vehicle, as compiled by autowaredev.com.

1) Firstly, you need to check the manual. Most caravans or trailers have a manual or maybe just a sticker on the inside that will have details regarding what type of car you need to successfully tow your trailer. Then check your Ford manual as you don't want to overload your Ford's engine.

2) Then, ensure that the trailer has a hitch package. This package is a system to connect the electronics of your trailer or caravan to your car. This type of package is a necessary feature because it supplies the electricity to the lights of the trailer, which lets other drivers know that you are on the road.

3) Before you set off take the time to test what you can see from your window. This could involve buying mirror extensions to ensure that you can see the camper and also give you some idea of what other road users are doing, which is especially important with motorcycle users. On a road trip the last thing you want to do is have an accident, have to sort out insurance details and even cause serious injuries.

4) Have a safety inspection before you put the key in the ignition. You need to take the time to ensure that fittings and connections are to the required standard. It will include: checking hitch wiring is long enough to account for turns, checking the pressure of tyres, connecting the stabilizer and equalizer, making sure the camper or trailer is level and adjust the trailer tongue so that it is in the right position.

5) Before you put the key in the engine you need to make sure your belongings are secure. It is important that you take this precaution as you don't want to arrive and discover that all of your things are broken and all cracked up into a hundred pieces.

6) Never go down a hill too fast. Put your gear stick into a lower gear and then slowly drive down the decline, this is perhaps the only safe way to cope with declining roads.

7) When you reverse you should be especially careful and take your time. During a steering manoeuvre the slightest of touches on steering wheel can damage the trailer or caravan and make the tow bar inoperable.

8) Next, you should try and not make any sharp or abrupt turns. Your driving should be smooth and any steering should be made as early as possible, this will help to ensure you stay a lot safer during your trip.

9) Finally, if you have concerns about your Ford vehicle then it might be a lot safer to lease a more powerful Ford instead. For instance, two months ago I decided on a Ford contract hire deal from autowaredev.com which enabled me to safely pull my trailer.

Hopefully, if you follow this advice you should have a really enjoyable time during your road trip, regardless of where you are going.